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Budapest’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites
With such an incredible diversity of culture, history, and architecture, it is unsurprising that parts of this great city have been recognised by UNESCO and inscribed onto the organisation’s list of World Heritage sites.
The three areas of Budapest that are included in the UNESCO World Heritage list are; the Banks of the Danube, the Buda Castle quarter and Andrássy Avenue and the Millennium Underground.
Buda Castle Quarter
Buda Castle
Buda Castle, a historical palace in Budapest, Hungary, is a stunning architectural masterpiece with a rich history dating back to the 13th century. It served as the residence of Hungarian kings and now hosts several museums, including the Budapest History Museum and the Hungarian National Gallery.
There are several other smaller museums close by including{
- The Golden Eagle Pharmacy Museum is a tiny museum, covering alchemy, the Middle Ages and pre-modern medicine.
- The Hospital in the Rock (Sziklakorhaz) underneath the Buda Castle district is one of the most unique and fascinating attractions of Budapest. It was built to house an air raid hospital, then it was transformed into a nuclear bunker. Nowadays the Hospital in the Rock Museum is one of the biggest Hungarian waxwork exhibitions with more than 200 figures, and numerous original machinery and furniture that are still in working condition.
- House of Houdini – located close to the building of the Buda Castle in Budapest – presents the life and shows of the world-famous illusionist born in Hungary.
The castle is situated on Castle Hill, overlooking the Danube River and offering breathtaking views of both Buda and Pest. Its Baroque-style architecture, cobblestone streets, and surrounding gardens make it a must-visit landmark for history enthusiasts and tourists.
Mathias Church
Matthias Church, located in the heart of Budapest’s historic Castle District, is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. Officially named the Church of Our Lady, it has a rich history dating back to its original construction in the 13th century. The church is renowned for its stunning neo-Gothic architecture, vibrant Zsolnay ceramic roof tiles, and intricate interior decorations. Over the centuries, it has witnessed significant historical events, including coronations of Hungarian kings and periods of transformation, such as its conversion into a mosque during the Ottoman era. Today, Matthias Church is not only a place of worship but also a popular tourist destination, offering breathtaking views of the Danube River and a glimpse into Hungary’s cultural and architectural heritage.
Fisherman’s Bastion
The Fisherman’s Bastion, perched atop Castle Hill in Budapest, is a striking neo-Gothic and neo-Romanesque structure offering panoramic views of the Danube River and the cityscape. Built between 1895 and 1902, it was designed by Frigyes Schulek as part of Hungary’s millennium celebrations. The bastion’s name is believed to honor the guild of fishermen who defended this stretch of the city walls in medieval times. Its seven gleaming white turrets symbolize the seven Magyar tribes that settled in the Carpathian Basin in 895. With its fairy-tale design, stairways, and terraces, the Fisherman’s Bastion is a favorite spot for visitors to admire Budapest’s beauty, especially the stunning views of Parliament and Margaret Island.
Medieval Streets
The Buda Castle Quarter in Budapest, Hungary, is a captivating blend of history and charm, with its medieval streets offering a glimpse into the past. Nestled atop Castle Hill, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is lined with cobblestone pathways, colourful Baroque and Gothic facades, and historic landmarks. As you wander through the maze of narrow streets, you’ll encounter quaint houses, atmospheric courtyards, and hidden passageways that evoke the spirit of medieval times.
The Banks of the Danube
The Parliament Building
The Hungarian Parliament Building, located in Budapest, is one of the most iconic landmarks of Hungary and a stunning example of neo-Gothic architecture. Situated along the banks of the Danube River, it is a prominent symbol of Budapest and a significant part of Hungary’s cultural and political history.
Key Features:
- Construction: Completed in 1904, it was designed by Hungarian architect Imre Steindl after winning an international competition in 1885.
- Architectural Style: Primarily neo-Gothic, with elements of Renaissance and Baroque. It also incorporates a symmetrical layout.
- Dimensions: The building is 268 meters long, 123 meters wide, and features a 96-meter-tall central dome. This height symbolizes the year 896 AD, marking the arrival of the Hungarian tribes in the Carpathian Basin.
- Facade: Adorned with intricate details, statues, and ornamental elements, the facade faces the Danube River.
- Interior: Lavishly decorated with grand staircases, frescoes, and gold-plated details. It houses:
- The Holy Crown of Hungary, displayed under the central dome.
- The National Assembly Hall, where parliamentary sessions are held.
- Offices and meeting rooms.
Significance:
- The Parliament Building serves as the seat of the National Assembly of Hungary.
- It symbolizes Hungarian independence, nationalism, and architectural excellence.
- It is the largest building in Hungary and one of the largest parliament buildings in the world.
Visitor Information:
- Guided tours are available, allowing visitors to explore the impressive interior and learn about Hungarian history and politics.
- The building is beautifully illuminated at night, making it a popular spot for photographers.
The Chain Bridge
The Chain Bridge (Széchenyi Lánchíd) in Budapest is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks and a symbol of its rich history. Completed in 1849, the bridge spans the Danube River, connecting the Buda and Pest sides of the city. Designed by English engineer William Tierney Clark, it was the first permanent bridge to link the two regions, which were previously only connected by ferries. The bridge features two majestic stone lions guarding its entrances and is known for its grand neoclassical design. Its construction was a remarkable achievement at the time, significantly improving trade and communication between the cities. The Chain Bridge has since become a symbol of unity, resilience, and progress for Budapest. Today, it continues to be a major tourist attraction, offering breathtaking views of the Danube and the surrounding architectural wonders, including the Royal Palace and the Parliament Building.
Shoes on the Danube Bank memorial
The Shoes on the Danube Bank is a poignant Holocaust memorial located along the Danube River in Budapest, Hungary. It commemorates the Jews who were killed during World War II by fascist Arrow Cross militiamen in 1944-45. Victims were ordered to remove their shoes before being shot on the banks of the river, their bodies falling into the water. The memorial consists of 60 pairs of bronze shoes, scattered across the pavement, symbolizing the victims who were murdered in such a brutal manner. Each pair represents the life that was lost, evoking the horror and tragedy of those final moments. The memorial serves as a powerful reminder of the atrocities of the Holocaust and stands as a tribute to the memory of the victims, ensuring that the past is not forgotten.
Andrássy Avenue and the Millennium Underground
Andrássy Avenue, added to the UNESCO World Heritage list in 2002, is an elegant boulevard that runs from Erzsébet Square to Heroes’ Square. This grand avenue, completed in 1876, is lined with neo-Renaissance mansions, cultural institutions, and luxury boutiques. It is a testament to Budapest’s late 19th-century architectural and urban planning achievements.
Hungarian State Opera House
The Hungarian State Opera House, located in Budapest, is a magnificent neo-Renaissance architectural masterpiece and a symbol of Hungary’s rich cultural heritage. Designed by renowned architect Miklós Ybl and inaugurated in 1884, the opera house is celebrated for its opulent interiors adorned with frescoes, marble columns, and gilded decorations. Its horseshoe-shaped auditorium, famed for its near-perfect acoustics, has hosted world-class operas, ballets, and concerts for over a century. The venue reflects Hungary’s artistic traditions and continues to be a hub for both classic and contemporary performances.
House of Terror Museum
The House of Terror Museum in Budapest is a compelling and somber reminder of Hungary’s turbulent 20th-century history under Nazi and Communist regimes. Located on Andrássy Avenue in the building that once served as the headquarters of the Arrow Cross Party and later the State Security Services, the museum vividly portrays the oppressive practices of both totalitarian systems. Through interactive exhibits, authentic artefacts, and poignant audiovisual presentations, visitors explore themes of persecution, propaganda, and resistance. The museum’s basement, where prisoners were detained and tortured, is a chilling highlight.
Heroes’ Square
At the end of Andrássy Avenue lies Heroes’ Square, one of Budapest’s most iconic public spaces. The Millennium Monument dominates the square, which features statues of the seven chieftains of the Magyars and other important national leaders. The Museum of Fine Arts and the Hall of Art are flanking the square, both significant cultural institutions.
The Millennium Underground Railway
The Millennium Underground Railway in Budapest, also known as Line 1 or the “Földalatti,” is a historic and iconic landmark in Hungary’s capital. Opened in 1896, it was constructed to commemorate the 1,000th anniversary of the Magyar conquest of Hungary, making it the oldest underground railway in continental Europe and the second oldest in the world after London. This UNESCO World Heritage site showcases elegant yellow train cars and charmingly preserved stations that reflect the Art Nouveau style of the era. Running beneath Andrássy Avenue, the line connects key cultural and historical landmarks, offering a blend of functionality and historical significance to Budapest’s urban landscape.
There is also a museum where visitors can explore original artefacts, vintage carriages, and historical displays showcasing the development of this groundbreaking transportation system. The museum highlights the blend of architectural elegance and technological innovation that defined the era
Getting around Budapest
Getting around Budapest is relatively easy due to its excellent public transportation system, as well as walkable streets and scenic bike paths. Here’s an overview of the best ways to get around the city:
1. Public Transportation
Budapest has a comprehensive public transport system, including buses, trams, and metro lines.
- Metro: The city has four metro lines (M1, M2, M3, and M4), with the M1 being the oldest and running from Vörösmarty Square to the City Park. The M3 connects key points like Deák Ferenc Square and Kőbánya-Kispest. The M4 line connects the western and eastern parts of the city.
- Trams: Trams are a scenic way to get around, with several routes running along the Danube River, offering views of the city’s landmarks. The most famous is Tram 2, which runs along the river from the southern Buda side to the northern Pest side.
- Buses: Buses cover areas not served by the metro or trams. Some routes are more frequent, such as those connecting the airport to the city center.
- Trolleybuses: These are electric buses that run in some parts of the city, with routes covering the downtown area and Buda hills.
- Tickets: You can buy tickets for all public transport modes at kiosks, metro stations, or through the mobile app. A standard ticket is valid for a single journey on any type of transport, but you’ll need to validate your ticket before boarding.
2. Trams and Buses
- Trams are a popular and scenic way to get around, with many routes along the river or in historic areas.
- Buses complement the metro and trams, covering areas the other systems don’t.
3. Biking
- Budapest has bike rental services and plenty of bike lanes, especially in central areas like Pest. You can rent bikes from services like MOL Bubi (public bike sharing), where you pick up and drop off bikes at stations around the city. The city’s parks and streets offer a great biking experience.
4. Walking
- Many parts of Budapest, especially the historic areas like the Castle District, the Jewish Quarter, and the city center, are very walkable. You can easily explore these on foot, soaking in the architecture and landmarks.
5. Taxis and Ride-hailing Apps
- Taxis are widely available, but it’s better to book one via a phone app or through an official taxi company (such as Főtaxi). Alternatively, you can use ride-hailing apps like Bolt and Uber (Uber operates under different regulations in Budapest, but you can still use some alternatives).
6. River Cruises and Boats
- Budapest’s location along the Danube River makes boat tours a popular activity. There are public transport boats (like D11, D12, etc.) that operate on the river and can be a unique way to explore the city.
7. Airport Transportation
- Budapest Airport (Liszt Ferenc International) is located about 20 km from the city center. You can take:
- Bus 100E (express airport bus), which goes directly to Deák Ferenc Square.
- Taxi: Taxis from the airport are available at fixed fares to the city center (around 30–40 minutes).
- Private transfers: Several services can pre-arrange airport transfers.
8. Car Rentals
- While driving in Budapest is possible, it’s not recommended due to the heavy traffic, narrow streets, and expensive parking. The public transport system is more efficient for getting around the city.
9. Hop-on Hop-off Tours
- For tourists, hop-on-hop-off bus tours are a convenient way to see the main attractions. They allow you to explore Budapest at your own pace with the option to jump on and off at popular tourist spots.
In summary, public transportation, trams, and walking are the best ways to get around Budapest, with bikes and river cruises offering great alternatives for scenic travel.
Eating out for vegans in Budapest
While Bergen might not be the most vegan-friendly city in the world, there are still plenty of high-quality options to choose from.
- Napfényes (meaning sunny in Hungarian) is one of the oldest fully plant-based restaurants in Budapest, right in the heart of the city. There are plenty of vegan fast food options around the capital, but Napfényes offers something a bit more special, making it a good choice for a date or dinner with family members. If you want to try some authentic traditional Hungarian dishes, with a plant-based twist, then this is the place to eat. I recommend the Bean Goulash soup, Stuffed Cabbage à la Kolozsvár, Seitan Roast à la Brasov and the Somló Sponge Cake to complete your Hungarian taste experience.
Vegan Love is an epic fast food place next to Gellért Hill and the Gellért Bath, and the perfect place to refuel after a long walk or when you’re super relaxed from enjoying the thermal baths. The space is small, but when the weather is nice you can bask in the sun on the outside seating. Vegan Love gained a reputation for its sensational plant-based burgers, but you can’t go wrong with the döner kebab or Mexican-style hot dog either.
- Vegan Garden offers soups, burgers, pasta dishes, pizzas, and a few Hungarian classics. The Forest Mushroom Paprikash with homemade dumplings, vegan sour cream and cucumber salad is a real stand-out. This is a fully vegan version of a traditional Hungarian dish that locals will cook for a Sunday lunch. If you want an authentic experience of Hungary, give it a try!
- Tucked away in a small street close to Margaret Island, Tökmag is a hidden gem you wouldn’t find unless you knew what you were looking for. But don’t let the tiny ground-floor reception fool you, there is a large dining room below ground, and if the weather is nice, you can enjoy your meal at one of the tables on the pedestrian street outside. This delightful bistro offers a selection of soups, salads and cakes
- You really can’t go wrong with freshly baked pita and a selection of creamy, vibrant dips, and that’s exactly what Dobrumba does so well. With two locations – one on the Buda side of the river, and the other on Pest, this Middle-Eastern gem is not to be missed. The restaurant is not fully vegan but offers a selection of plant-based dips and some easily customized dishes that will leave any meat and dairy dodger fully satisfied.
The best time to visit Budapest
The best time to visit Budapest is typically spring (March to May) or fall (September to November). During these periods, the weather is pleasant, attractions are less crowded than in the peak summer months, and accommodation prices can be more reasonable. Here’s a breakdown:
Spring (March to May):
- Weather: Mild temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F).
- Activities: Blossoming gardens, river cruises on the Danube, and outdoor cafes opening up.
- Crowds: Moderate, as it’s not yet peak tourist season.
Fall (September to November):
- Weather: Comfortable, with temperatures between 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F).
- Activities: Beautiful autumn foliage, wine festivals, and cultural events.
- Crowds: Lower than summer, making it easier to explore popular sites like Buda Castle and Fisherman’s Bastion.
Summer (June to August):
- Weather: Warm to hot, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F).
- Activities: Outdoor festivals, thermal baths, and late-night entertainment.
- Crowds: This is the busiest season, with higher accommodation costs and crowded attractions.
Winter (December to February):
- Weather: Cold, with temperatures often dropping below freezing.
- Activities: Christmas markets, thermal baths (especially magical in winter), and fewer crowds at major attractions.
- Crowds: Minimal, except during the Christmas and New Year period.
If you enjoy comfortable weather and fewer crowds, spring or fall are ideal times to visit Budapest.
Where to stay in Budapest
1. Mid Range: Bo18 Hotel Superior
Bo18 Hotel Superior is a stylish and modern three-star hotel located in Budapest, Hungary, offering a comfortable and welcoming stay for travelers. Situated near the bustling Corvin Promenade, it provides easy access to cultural landmarks, shopping areas, and vibrant nightlife. The hotel features elegantly designed rooms equipped with modern amenities, including free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and air conditioning, ensuring a pleasant experience for guests. Bo18 Hotel Superior is renowned for its exceptional service, relaxing wellness area with a sauna and jacuzzi, and a delicious buffet breakfast catering to diverse tastes. It’s an ideal choice for business and leisure travelers alike, blending convenience with a touch of luxury.
2. Luxury – Áurea Ana Palace
The Áurea Ana Palace is a remarkable hotel located in the heart of Budapest, Hungary. Nestled near the Danube River, it embodies a harmonious blend of historical elegance and modern luxury. The building, once a stately 19th-century palace, has been meticulously restored to preserve its architectural grandeur, including its ornate facades and intricate interior details. Guests are treated to sophisticated accommodations, combining classic charm with contemporary amenities. The hotel’s proximity to Budapest’s iconic landmarks, such as the Parliament Building and Buda Castle, makes it a prime location for travelers. Offering exceptional hospitality, gourmet dining, and wellness facilities, the Áurea Ana Palace provides a regal experience reflective of the city’s rich heritage.
3. Budget – Avenue Hostel
Avenue Hostel in Budapest is a popular choice for travelers seeking affordable yet comfortable accommodation in the heart of the city. Located on the bustling Oktogon square, it offers easy access to Budapest’s iconic attractions, vibrant nightlife, and convenient public transportation. The hostel features a welcoming atmosphere with modern, clean dormitories and private rooms, ensuring options for all types of travelers. Guests can enjoy complimentary breakfast, a shared kitchen, and cozy common areas to socialize. The friendly staff is always ready to assist with tips on exploring the city, making Avenue Hostel a top pick for backpackers and budget-conscious adventurers.
